Awakenings

Awakenings from Then ’til Now allows you to Embrace Your Past, Empower the Present, Enrich Your Future.

Welcome to Awakenings

Life IS history in the making. Every word we say, everything we do becomes history the moment it is said or done. Life void of memories leaves nothing but emptiness. For those who might consider history boring, think again: It is who we are, what we do and why we are here. We are certainly individuals in our thoughts and deeds but we all germinated from seeds planted long, long ago.

Saturday, February 28, 2015

Within the month of March comes the first official day of Spring! Celebration after celebration abounds before during and after the famous St. Patrick's Day. Of course, signs are already in the picture as Mother Nature's Delights bring forth sunshine inside and out on the last of the cold wintry days. First buds in some regions of the nation have already begun to appear with speck after speck of green peeping out from the cold, cold ground.

Irish-American Heritage Month* is a special proclamation issued yearly since 1991 by the United States President or Congress to honor the achievements and contributions of Irish
immigrants and their descendants living in the United States. This
heritage month coincides with the Irish national holiday
on March 17, Saint Patrick's Day, which celebrates all things Irish.

[*Heritage Months are usually proclaimed to celebrate centuries of contributions by a group to a country. Check out A Bit of the Irish!]

Women have struggled throughout history to become recognized for their talents, contributions, courage, and equal rights outside the confines of the everyday household. Many accomplishments would not have ever come to fruition had it not been for the perseverance of women. They have earned their place in history books, curriculum, museums, projects, and so much more. March is designated as Women's history month to coincide with International Women's Day on March 8.And...

While we all know we should eat right every day and hound our children to eat balanced meals, we do not always practice what we preach. With this month being recognized as National Nutrition Month, perhaps a little more effort could be put forth toward balanced nutrition for both body and mind. "Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle" is the theme for National Nutrition Month® 2015.

Thursday, February 26, 2015

Br-er Groundhog gave us six more weeks of winter so Winter Break isn't over altogether but with February being a short month, Spring is already in sight! Just the thought of Spring is enough to bring sunshine on a cold wintry day, at least inside if not out...that is, within the heart and mind! So, bring the sunshine that is on the inside outside with some really big smiles and focus on the days ahead. If you are as impatient as I am, you cannot wait for those first buds to appear or specks of green to peek out from beneath the cold, cold ground. Each region of the nation will begin experiencing its own unique signs of Spring dear to the heart with both plants and animals sending forth harbingers that signal the annual demise of Ol' Man Winter!

Mother Nature's Delights

Snowdrops from Winter sleepBring life to land that is dreary Mother Nature's paintbrushDelightful sights for the winter-wearyGlory-of-the-Snow in the snowBurst forth blue, white, even pinkMother Nature's honor guardDelightful indelible ink

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

1956:Looking for a legal loophole with which to shut
down rock and roll shows, police in Cleveland, OH enforce a 1931
ordinance forbidding minors from dancing without adult supervision.Can you imagine this happening today? Ahem! Probably should!

1992: The US Postal Service's infamous "Elvis stamps"
are unveiled, with the institution allowing fans to vote for which of
two versions -- a young, thin '50s Elvis or a more mature, heavier '70s Elvis -- will make the
final cut.

Sir Elton John is best known for his tribute to Princess Diana and his top single Candle in the Wind, and now, for being a member of the exclusive league of knighted musicians. He was knighted for his services to music and charity.

I mean, obviously. The craziest Super Bowl moment occurred when
Justin (who really doesn’t get enough of the blame in this fiasco) sang
“I’m gonna have you naked by the end of this song,” before ripping off a
piece of Janet’s wardrobe and revealing her nipple (which was decorated
with a large, sun-shaped nipple shield). It was the most rewatched
moment TiVo history, and it changed the tone of the Super Bowl Halftime
Show forever. Have you ever wondered why the Super Bowl started booking
old, conservative acts like the Rolling Stonesand The Who? Just ask Janet’s nipple.
Source: 6 Most Shocking Superbowl Moments

Friday, February 13, 2015

Winter Break will just have to halt as I come out of hibernation for the biggest romance day of the year: A day when spirits are
lifted in both usual and unusual ways. Some stroke the heartstrings so
tenderly tears are gently brushed away with a kiss; others are totally
mesmerizing striking deep down into the soul. Then, of course, there are those completely unexpected bringing on smiles and
laughter along with tears.

Guess what? Round 2 of the nation's arctic blast is underway as dangerously low temperatures bring chills to the bone along with inches upon inches of snow. All the more reason to snuggle up close in front of a fire with a mug of hot cocoa or your favorite beverage.

Like
all things there is history behind this day known for its everlasting
expressions of love. Its roots date back to ancient times. Do you know
why we celebrate Valentine's Day on February 14th and where the holiday
customs come from?

Maximize the window in order to read the historical facts.

It may be necessary to pause periodically since the music

moves faster than reading capability.

Some say this day is for couples...for lovers to express their sincerest, deepest feelings for one another. Isn't it a day to celebrate love of all ages, whether romantically involved or not? The hearts and minds of children are just as excited on this day as the most romantic of romantics. Valentine's cards, trinkets, candy and small gifts of expression are exchanged amid hugs and smiles of joy.

So, are you ready for Valentine's Day? What thoughts or ideas do you have in mind for this very special day? Chocolates, roses, jewelry, gift basket, stuffed animal for someone special?Perhaps a surprise getaway, breakfast in bed, champagne brunch? Small, simple Valentine's card for a child or an assortment of cards for a group of children? A visit to a hospital, retirement center or elderly folks home? Hugs and kisses that show you care? Whatever you say or do, just don't forget the Conversation Hearts! Valentine, be mine!

It is not surprising that there are limitless possibilities, especially with the ability to traverse cyberspace over the World Wide Web. Fingers negotiate the keyboard like the hairy legs of the spider spinning its web. BUT, while the e-Valentine may contain the desired message, there is still nothing like that personalized hand-written love note! No comparison!

For whatever reason you will be celebrating Valentine's day, with that one someone special or not, just remember it is a day of love:remembering in ways to show you care.

If you enjoy trips down music memory lane, take your pick at Music Memories. Perhaps you will find your favorite recording artist in the Spotlight!Looking for a special recipe? Visit yum, yum, yum ... yummy! Hundreds of recipes to choose from, after all yummy recipes are good for the heart, mind, body and soul!

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About Me

Sharla is a graduate of Troy State University and an educator with a flair for writing in poetic verse. Her latest book, Awakenings from Then ’til Now is available from Tate Publishing. It is dedicated to those who laid the foundation and established the platform for our American freedom: those who have served in the past, presently serve, or will serve our military forces in the future. A profound appreciation is extended for the sacrifice of these brave men and women who left or will leave their homes and family to ensure America’s freedom endures.

A grave price is being paid every moment of every day of the year for all the freedom America has to offer. Let us not forget those who have fought or are fighting for our nation; they are the epitome of the human spirit called freedom!